If you’re running a business, your productivity suite is the foundation of your daily operations. Your email, documents, spreadsheets, databases, and collaboration tools are either going to be powered by Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace. These two platforms dominate the market, but between Microsoft 365 vs. Google Workspace, which one is the best fit for your company?
Having used both extensively, I’ll break down the key differences and explain why Microsoft 365 is the better choice for most businesses.
The Legacy of Google Workspace
Google Workspace (formerly G Suite) gained massive traction in the early days because it was free. Businesses could set up a custom domain and provide email accounts to a limited number of users without paying a dime. But in 2020, Google pulled the plug on that free tier, and today, Google Workspace pricing is comparable to Microsoft 365.
Despite this, many businesses remain in the Google ecosystem because they started there and don’t see a compelling reason to switch. But are they missing out on a more powerful solution?
Microsoft 365 vs. Google Workspace: Why Microsoft 365 is the Better Choice
1. Familiarity and Usability
Microsoft 365 includes Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams—tools that most employees already know and use. These apps work seamlessly on Windows PCs and Macs, with full desktop and web-based versions. Google’s alternatives (Docs, Sheets, and Gmail) are functional, but they lack the depth and power of their Microsoft counterparts.
The web-based versions of Word and Excel are incredibly robust, offering nearly the same functionality as their desktop versions. This makes it easy for teams to collaborate in real time while maintaining the features they rely on.
2. Better Security and Compliance
Google Workspace offers admin controls, but Microsoft 365 takes security to another level. Microsoft provides enterprise-grade data governance tools that let you:
- Control who has access to what
- Restrict third-party app permissions
- Lock down devices with Conditional Access
For industries that require strict compliance (like healthcare and finance), Microsoft 365 offers better controls and security features. Businesses using Google should ask themselves: Do I really have privacy? The old joke about the “Gmail Man” reading your emails before delivering them isn’t entirely off base.
3. Device Integration
Most businesses use Windows PCs or Macs, both of which work best with Microsoft 365. Windows PCs, in particular, are built to integrate with Microsoft’s suite, providing:
- Single sign-on for seamless access
- Conditional access policies for security
- Full control over devices to prevent unauthorized sharing or data loss
On the other hand, Google pushes Chromebooks, which are essentially just web browsers with limited storage and processing power. While they work fine for students, they don’t offer the horsepower businesses need.
4. Collaboration and Productivity Tools
Microsoft Teams, OneDrive, and Planner provide businesses with a complete collaboration suite. Teams is far more powerful than Google Meet and Chat, offering:
- Deep integration with Office apps
- Advanced meeting and webinar capabilities
- Superior file management and security
While Google Drive is functional, OneDrive and SharePoint provide better integration, governance, and usability.
5. Control Over Company Data
With Microsoft 365, businesses can maintain complete control over their IT environment. Companies can issue managed Windows PCs with policies that prevent unauthorized access, control data sharing, and ensure compliance. Google Workspace doesn’t offer the same level of enterprise management.
Microsoft 365 vs. Google Workspace: The Verdict
For businesses that want a productivity suite that’s powerful, secure, and seamlessly integrated with their devices, Microsoft 365 is the clear winner. It provides more security, better device integration, and the robust features that companies need to operate efficiently.
If you’re still using Google Workspace but feel limited by its functionality, it may be time to consider a switch. At Stringfellow, we help businesses transition to Microsoft 365, ensuring a smooth migration and improved productivity.
Want to explore how Microsoft 365 can improve your workflow? Contact us today to learn more.
